Impact absorbing and dispersion helmet system

ABSTRACT

The present disclosure is generally related to systems, devices, and methods for mitigating energy propagation through helmets during a collision, thereby reducing the risk of brain damage from a traumatic brain injury. For example, an impact absorption system may be utilized to increase energy absorption of forces propagating through a helmet. In a particular configuration, the absorption system includes an external shell, a plurality of impact absorbing elements, one or more liners, and/or a foam layer to mitigate the resulting forces from an impact that reach a user&#39;s brain.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 62/908,233, filed Sep. 30, 2019. The entire contents ofthe foregoing application are incorporated into the present applicationin their entirety.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to impact absorption systems,and more specifically, to helmets that may be suitable to protectagainst an impact during an automotive accident.

BACKGROUND

Individuals may be exposed to forceful head impacts while performing allmanner of activities, such as, contact sports, cycling, racing, driving,carpentry, mining or other hobbies and professional occupations. Aforceful impact to the head may cause immediate serious or even fatalinjury, as well as long term brain damage. Accordingly, an individualmay choose to wear protective gear, such as a helmet to prevent serioushead injury. Most current helmet designs utilize a hard external layerand an absorbent internal layers. Generally, the hard layer does littleimpact absorption, but provide some penetration protection, hinderingforeign objects from reaching the absorbent layers as well as a user'shead.

Current helmet designs use a polystyrene or foam absorbent layer, orsafety liner, to distribute and absorb energy propagating through thehelmet towards the human brain. While current helmets dissipate some ofthe resulting impact forces from a collision, they still allowsignificant forces to reach a user's brain. For example, in some cases,the absorbent layers may utilize material or a structural layup thatonly offers protection for impacts within lesser magnitudes of impact.As a result, current helmets often do not offer optimal protectionagainst high impact collisions, such as collisions into various solidobjects, to protect a user against a traumatic brain injury (TBI).Often, the polystyrene or foam layer must be very thick to offer anykind of sufficient impact protection for a high impact collision, suchas an automotive crash or a head to head collision. This results inhelmets that are too cumbersome to undesirable and uncomfortable to thewearers. In addition, the foam is generally inelastic and susceptible topermanent deformation after a collision. Accordingly, the entire helmetmust be replaced after exposure to a significant impact.

Thus, there exists a need for a more effective lightweight and re-usableimpact absorption system that provides significant protection to a userduring a high impact collision.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure is generally related to systems, devices, andmethods for mitigating energy propagation through helmets during acollision, thereby reducing the risk of brain damage from a traumaticbrain injury. For example, a headgear impact dispersion system mayinclude a plurality of impact absorbing elements coupled to an externalshell of a helmet to disperse an impact applied to the helmet. In someconfigurations, each element may include a viscoelastic polymerextending radially away from the external shell in a direction oppositeof the cavity. In some of the foregoing configurations, each elementincludes an upper lip and a lower lip and extends though the externalshell of the helmet. In some such configurations, the external shell ofthe helmet includes an interior surface and an exterior surface that isopposite of the interior surface and the plurality of impact absorbingelements are coupled to the helmet such that the lower lip of eachelement is disposed on the interior surface and the upper lip isdisposed on the exterior surface.

Some configurations of the present system include a plurality of coverscoupled to the external shell. In some such configurations, each covercomprising a pliable material disposed over at least one impactabsorbing element of the plurality of impact absorbing elements. In atleast some configurations, each of the plurality of impact absorbingelements may be cylindrical or toroid to maximize energy absorption inthe system. In the foregoing configurations, wherein each of theplurality of impact absorbing elements comprises a viscoelastic polymer.

In some configurations, the present disclosure describes an absorptionsystem for protecting a user's head from resulting energy transfer of animpact. In one example, the system includes an outer shell that definesa cavity configured to be positioned over a user's head, a foam layercoupled to the outer shell; and an absorption layer positioned betweenthe foam layer and the outer shell. In some configurations, theabsorption layer includes one or more inner liners and a plurality ofimpact absorbing elements coupled to the inner liner(s), each elementcomprising a viscoelastic polymer. In at least some of the foregoingimplementations, the impact absorbing elements comprise an absorbentbody and a cover. In some such configurations, the absorbent body iscylindrical and the cover comprises a pliable material configured to bedisposed over and surround at least a portion of the absorbent body. Insome configurations, the one or more inner liner(s) are coupled to a topsurface of the foam layer such that the inner liner covers at least aportion of the foam layer.

In some of the foregoing configurations, the plurality of impactabsorbing elements extend from the inner liner(s) toward the externalshell without contacting the external shell. Some configurations includea plurality of connectors. In some configurations, the one or more innerliner(s) include a first inner liner and a second inner liner, where theplurality of connectors are configured to couple the first inner linerto the second inner liner. S some such configurations include aplurality of posts configured to be coupled to the one or more innerliner(s). For example, the plurality of posts comprise a first postcoupled to the first inner liner and a second post coupled to the secondinner liner. In such implementations, a first connector of the pluralityof connectors extends from the first post to the second post to couplethe first inner liner to the second inner liner. In some configurations,a second connector of the plurality of connectors extends from the outershell to the first inner liner to couple the absorption layer to theouter shell. In at least some of the foregoing configurations, each postincludes a post platform configured to be coupled to the inner liner(s),and a post body extending away from the post platform, the post bodycomprising an upper lip. In some configurations, each post comprises alaminate

Some devices of the present disclosure include a helmet for protecting auser from an impact. The helmet can include an outer shell defining acavity configured to be positioned over a user's head, a foam layercoupled to the outer shell, a plurality of sandwich layers coupled tothe foam layer. In some configurations, each sandwich layer comprises aninner liner, an outer liner; and a plurality of impact absorbingelements extending from the outer liner to the inner liner, each elementcomprising a viscoelastic polymer, and a connection assembly configuredto couple the one or more sandwich layers together. In someconfigurations, the connection assembly includes a plurality of postscoupled to the inner liner and the outer liner of each sandwich layerand one or more fasteners configured to connect at least two posts ofthe plurality of post together. In some of the foregoing helmets, thefoam layer is positioned between the outer shell and the plurality ofsandwich layers. In some configurations, a top surface of the outerliner of each sandwich layer is coupled to the foam layer. In at leastsome configurations, each post includes a post platform and a post bodycoupled to, and extending away from, the post platform. In some suchconfigurations, a first post of the plurality of posts is coupled to afirst inner liner, a second post of the plurality of posts is coupled toa second inner liner, and a first fastener of the one or more fastenersextends from the first post to the second post to couple the first andsecond inner liners together. In some configurations, the post bodycomprises an upper lip. In some of the foregoing configurations, thepost body is be moveable relative to the post platform.

Some of the present devices, systems, or methods include an impactabsorbing element for dispersing force from an impact on a helmet. Insome configurations, the impact absorbing element includes a cylindricalbody extending from a top surface to a bottom surface, the cylindricalbody comprising a viscoelastic polymer and defining one or moreprotrusions and a concave protective cover configured to be disposedover the top surface of the cylindrical body such that a portion of thecover surrounds the top surface of the cylindrical body. In some suchconfigurations, the bottom surface of the cylindrical body is configuredto be coupled to an external shell of a helmet such that the externalshell is disposed between one of the protrusions and the top surface.

The term “coupled” is defined as connected, although not necessarilydirectly, and not necessarily mechanically; two items that are “coupled”may be unitary with each other. The terms “a” and “an” are defined asone or more unless this disclosure explicitly requires otherwise. Theterm “substantially” is defined as largely but not necessarily whollywhat is specified (and includes what is specified; e.g., substantially90 degrees includes 90 degrees and substantially parallel includesparallel), as understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art. Inany disclosed configuration, the term “substantially” may be substitutedwith “within [a percentage] of” what is specified, where the percentageincludes 0.1, 1, 5, and 10 percent.

Further, an apparatus or system that is configured in a certain way isconfigured in at least that way, but it can also be configured in otherways than those specifically described.

The terms “comprise” (and any form of comprise, such as “comprises” and“comprising”), “have” (and any form of have, such as “has” and“having”), and “include” (and any form of include, such as “includes”and “including”) are open-ended linking verbs. As a result, an apparatusthat “comprises,” “has,” or “includes” one or more elements possessesthose one or more elements, but is not limited to possessing only thoseelements. Likewise, a method that “comprises,” “has,” or “includes” oneor more steps possesses those one or more steps, but is not limited topossessing only those one or more steps.

Any configuration of any of the apparatuses, systems, and methods canconsist of or consist essentially of—rather thancomprise/include/have—any of the described steps, elements, and/orfeatures. Thus, in any of the claims, the term “consisting of” or“consisting essentially of” can be substituted for any of the open-endedlinking verbs recited above, in order to change the scope of a givenclaim from what it would otherwise be using the open-ended linking verb.

The feature or features of one configuration may be applied to otherconfigurations, even though not described or illustrated, unlessexpressly prohibited by this disclosure or the nature of theconfigurations.

Some details associated with the configurations described above andothers are described below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The following drawings illustrate by way of example and not limitation.For the sake of brevity and clarity, every feature of a given structureis not always labeled in every figure in which that structure appears.Identical reference numbers do not necessarily indicate an identicalstructure. Rather, the same reference number may be used to indicate asimilar feature or a feature with similar functionality, as maynon-identical reference numbers.

FIG. 1A is a schematic front perspective view of an example of thepresent impact dispersion system.

FIG. 1B is a schematic side perspective view of the impact dispersionsystem of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 2A is a side view of an example of an absorbent body of a presentimpact absorbing element.

FIG. 2B is a side view of an example of a cover of the impact absorbingelement.

FIG. 2C is a cross sectional view of the absorbent body and cover ofFIGS. 2A and 2B, respectively, coupled to a helmet.

FIG. 3A is a schematic front perspective view of another example of thepresent impact dispersion system.

FIG. 3B is a schematic side perspective view of the impact dispersionsystem of FIG. 3A.

FIG. 4A-FIG. 4B are schematic front and side perspective views,respectively, of an example of the present impact dispersion systemhaving a multi-piece layer.

FIG. 4C-FIG. 4D are schematic top and cross-sectional views,respectively, of an example of a connection assembly in use with theimpact dispersion system of FIG. 4A.

FIG. 5A-FIG. 5B are schematic front and side perspective views,respectively, of another example of the present impact dispersion systemhaving a multi-piece layer.

FIG. 5C-FIG. 5D are schematic top and cross-sectional views,respectively, of an example of a connection assembly in use with theimpact dispersion system of FIG. 5A.

FIG. 6A-FIG. 6B are schematic front and side perspective views,respectively, of another example of the present impact dispersion systemhaving a multi-piece layer.

FIG. 6C-FIG. 6D are schematic top and cross-sectional views,respectively, of an example of a connection assembly in use with theimpact dispersion system of FIG. 6A.

FIG. 7A is a schematic perspective view of an example of a post as usedin a connection assembly of the present impact dispersion systems.

FIG. 7B is a cross-sectional view of the post of FIG. 7A.

FIG. 7C is a perspective view of another example of a post used in thepresent impact dispersion systems.

FIG. 7D is a perspective view a post used to join adjacent liners of thedispersion system.

FIG. 8A-FIG. 8B are schematic front and side perspective views,respectively, of another example of the present impact dispersionsystem.

FIG. 9A-FIG. 9B are schematic front and side perspective views,respectively, of an example of the present impact dispersion systemhaving two separate multi-piece layers.

FIG. 9C-FIG. 9D are schematic top and cross-sectional views,respectively, of an example of a connection assembly in use with theimpact dispersion system of FIG. 9A.

FIG. 10A-FIG. 10B are schematic front and side perspective views,respectively, of another example of the present impact dispersion systemhaving two separate multi-piece layers.

FIG. 10C-FIG. 10D are schematic top and cross-sectional views,respectively, of an example of a connection assembly in use with theimpact dispersion system of FIG. 10A.

FIG. 11A-FIG. 11B are schematic front and side perspective views,respectively, of another example of the present impact dispersion systemhaving two separate multi-piece layers.

FIG. 11C-FIG. 11D are schematic top and cross-sectional view,respectively, of an example of a connection assembly in use with theimpact dispersion system of FIG. 11A.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an example of a bolt assembly of thepresent impact dispersion system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIGS. 1A and 1B depict a configuration 10 of the present impactdispersion system. For example, FIG. 1A depicts a perspective view ofimpact dispersion system 10, and FIG. 1 B depicts a side view of theimpact dispersion system. Although referred to as impact dispersionsystem 10, the system may also be referred to herein as an impactabsorption system, impact absorbing helmet system, headgear dispersionsystem, energy absorption/dispersion system. The object of this systemis mitigate the impact energy from penetrating the helmets layers duringa collision, thereby reducing the risk of brain damage from a traumaticbrain injury (TBI). As shown, impact dispersion system 10 includes ahelmet 14 and a plurality of impact absorbing elements 18 (e.g.,absorbent elements) coupled to the helmet.

Helmet 14 is configured to be worn over a user's head and protect theuser's brain from harmful impacts. Helmet 14 includes an external shell22 having an inner surface 26 and an outer surface 30. Inner surface 26may define a cavity 32 in which a user may place their head when wearinghelmet 14. In some configurations, external shell 22 is substantiallyrigid to prevent a foreign object from penetrating though the externalshell. External shell 22 may comprise any suitable material having therequisite strength and durability characteristics to function as ahelmet, such as, but not limited to, polycarbonate, carbon fiber,fiberglass, Kevlar, other fiber reinforced composites or moldedpolymers, and the like.

As shown, absorbent elements 18 may be disposed on an exterior of helmet14. In some configurations, absorbent elements 18 are coupled to outersurface 30 of external shell 22. To illustrate, each absorbent element(e.g., 18) may comprise a bottom portion coupled to external shell 22and a top portion extending radially away from the external shell in adirection opposite of cavity 32. In this way, absorbent elements 18 mayallow external shell to provide some level of impact protection (e.g.,absorption/dispersion) to a user. In some configurations, the pluralityof absorbent elements 18 may collectively provide impact protection forhelmet 14. For example, greater than or equal to any one of, or betweenany two of: 2, 5, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75,80, 85, 90, 95, or 100 elements may be coupled to helmet 14. In someconfigurations, more than 100 elements may be used in impact dispersionsystem 10. Each absorbent element 18 may be light weight (e.g., between2-6 oz) so that multiple absorbent elements may be used without addingany significant weight to helmet 14. The decreased weight of a helmetmay provide additional protection by reducing the rotational momentum ofthe helmet (e.g., rotational acceleration) upon impact. In this way, theabsorbent elements 18 may be optimally positioned to provide at leastthe same protection as a sheet of material attached to an exterior(e.g., external shell) of a helmet while adding less weight to thehelmet.

Absorbent elements 18 may be positioned along the exterior of the helmetat any suitable location. In some configurations, absorbent elements 18may be more densely populated at a location (e.g., frontal lobe) whererisk of traumatic brain injury from an impact is far greater incomparison to the other areas of the human brain. For example,twenty-one absorbent elements (e.g., 18) may be optimally positionedaround helmet 14 to provide sufficient protection to all areas of thebrain. In a specific, non-limiting example, nine absorbent elements 18may be placed along the forehead area of helmet 14, and four absorbentelements may be places along each of the left side, the right side, andthe back of the helmet. This can add additional protection to a helmet(e.g., 14) with only adding a nominal amount of weight (e.g., 10ounces). The absorbent elements 18 may distribute energy propagationthroughout system 10 even if not directly impacted due to the expandingof each highly elastic and briefly elongated non-impacted element priorto the respective impacted elements rebound to its initial shape. Asexplained in greater detail below, absorbent elements may work inconjunction with one or more other components of impact dispersionsystem 10 to mitigate energy transfer though the helmet (e.g., 14). Asdescribed, impact dispersion system 10 may installed upon an existinghelmet to increase the impact protection without changing the comfort ofthe helmet. In this way, a user may continue to use a helmet that maynot otherwise meet safety or impact requirements. Additionally, helmetsincluding impact dispersion system 10 may be able to be re-used after ahigh impact collision due to the high impact absorption characteristicsof absorbent element 18.

Referring now to FIG. 2A-2C, an example of absorbent element 18 isshown. Absorbent elements 18 may include a body 42 and a cover 46. Body42 and/or cover 46 may be coupled to external shell 22. For example,cover 46 may cover at least a portion (e.g., top portion) of body 42 toprotect the body from atmospheric conditions (e.g., sunlight, rain,snow, ice, wind, humidity, or the like).

Body 42 includes a top surface 50, a bottom surface 54 that opposes thetop surface, and a side surface 60 extending from the top surface to thebottom surface. In some configurations, side surface 60 may define oneor more protrusions 62 (e.g., circumferential lip). Additionally, oralternatively, side surface 60 may define one or more grooves 66. Toillustrate, body 42 may comprise a first protrusion 70 (e.g., upperlip), and a second protrusion (e.g, lower lip 74) that define a groove(e.g., 66) between the first and second protrusions. Body 42 includes alength 76 and a width 78. Length 76 is measured between top surface andbottom surface along a straight line. Length 76 can be greater than orsubstantially equal to any one of, or between any two of: 1/16, ⅛, 3/16,¼, 5/16, ⅜, 7/16, ½, 9/16, ⅝, 11/16, ¾, 13/16, ⅞, 15/16, or 1 inches(in.) (e.g., approximately ⅜ in). Width 78 (e.g., diameter) is measuredbetween opposing sides of side surface 60 across a straight line. Width78 can be greater than or substantially equal to any one of, or betweenany two of: 1/16, ⅛, 3/16, ¼, 5/16, ⅜, 7/16, ½, 9/16, ⅝, 11/16, ¾,13/16, ⅞, 15/16, or 1 inches (in.) (e.g., approximately ⅜ in). In someconfigurations, length 76 is less than, equal to, or greater than width78.

As shown body 42, is cylindrical to provide optimal absorption to impactdispersion system 10. The cylindrical shaped body may absorb anddisperse more impact energy than the use of a body shaped as arectangular prism. In other configurations, body 42 may be shaped andsized in any suitable manner, such as a toroid (e.g., doughnut-shaped),frustoconical, prism, or the like. For example, at least a portion ofbody 42 may be frustoconical to increase a surface area of the body forgreater dispersion characteristics.

In the depicted configurations, body 42 comprises a viscoelastic polymer(VEP). For example, VEP is a material that exhibits both viscous andelastic properties. In some configurations, the VEP may exhibitshear-thickening or shear-thinning properties. Shear-thinning VEPsappear to be solid at rest but, under stress, they show some continuousliquid-like deformation (e.g., deformation is not reversible as it isthe case for normal solids). As a result, VEP may have good vibrationdamping characteristics (e.g., high damping coefficient) and caneffectively dissipate energy. In some configurations, the VEP may is asynthetic viscoelastic urethane polymer (e.g., Sorbothane). In otherconfigurations, the VEP may comprise any suitable material such asoxide, metallic glass-forming materials, crystal compounds,nanocomposites, or the like.

As shown in FIG. 2B, cover 46 may comprise an inner surface 80, an outersurface 82 that opposes inner surface, and a first end 84 that extendsbetween inner and outer surface. First end 84 (e.g., base) may define anannular member with inner and outer surface 80, 82 extending away fromthe first end. The term annular member is not limited to a circle, butmay include any member defined by the area between two shapes providingan added energy absorption efficiency. In some configurations, cover 46(e.g., inner surface 80) defines a cavity 86 so that at least a portion(up to and including all) of body 42 may be disposed within the cavityto protect the from atmospheric conditions. In the depictedconfigurations, first end 84 is circular, elliptical, combinationthereof, and/or the like. Likewise, cover 46 is shown to be concave,while in other configurations, the cover may be any suitable size orshape to surround body 42. In any case, the configured shape(s) of eachunit is to provide optimum efficiency of deterring the damaging highvelocity impact energy to and through the brain.

Cover 46 includes a length 90 and a width 92. Length 90 and width 92 maybe greater than length 76 and width 78, respectively, to allow for freeengagement of body 42 within cavity 86. Length 90 is measured betweenfirst end 84 and a top portion of cover along a straight line. Length 76can be greater than or substantially equal to any one of, or between anytwo of: 1/16, ⅛, 3/16, ¼, 5/16, ⅜, 7/16, ½, 9/16, ⅝, 11/16, ¾, 13/16, ⅞,15/16, or 1 inches (in.) (e.g., approximately ⅜ in). Width 92 (e.g.,diameter) is measured between opposing sides of inner surface 80 atfirst end 84 across a straight line. Width 92 can be greater than orsubstantially equal to any one of, or between any two of: ⅛, ¼, ⅜, ½, ⅝,¾, ⅞, 1, 1⅛, 1¼, 1⅜, 1½, 1⅝, 1¾, or 2 inches (in.) (e.g., approximately1½ in). In some configurations, length 90 is less than, equal to, orgreater than width 92.

Cover 46 can be made of any durable and pliable material, such asrubber, silicone, other polymer, or any other suitable pliable anddurable covering material. Cover 46 may comprise an elastic, pliablematerial such that the cover can move between a resting state and adeformed state when a force is applied without breaking or fracture ofthe cover. In some configurations, cover 46 may return to the restingstate after the force is removed. Cover 46 may be deformable such thatbody 42 may still reach a maximum compressed state upon impact while thecover is surrounding the body.

As shown in FIG. 2C, body 42 may extend through external shell 22 suchthat a portion of the body (e.g., first protrusion 70) is disposed onouter surface 30 and one other portion of the body (e.g., secondprotrusion 74) is disposed on inner surface 26. In such configurations,protrusion(s) 62 and/or groove(s) 66 may prevent body 42 fromtranslating or rotating relative to helmet 14 during an impact. Firstand second protrusions 70, 74 may be sized and shaped in any suitablemanner to secure body 42 to helmet 14. For example, first and secondprotrusions 70, 74 may each comprise a circumferential lip, a pluralityof protrusions extending radially away from body 42, or any otherstructure to secure the base to helmet 14. In other configurations, bodymay comprise a single protrusion (e.g., 62) configured to be positionedon either outer surface 30 or inner surface 26 of external shell 22,while in other configurations, body 42 may comprise a groove without anyprotrusions. In this manner, body 42 may be secured to external shell 22to disperse impacts applied to absorbent elements 18 though both body 42and the external shell. In other configurations, body 42 may be coupledto outer surface 30 without extending though external shell 22 (e.g.,bottom surface 54 of body is coupled to outer surface 30). In any suchconfiguration, a separate fastener (e.g., adhesive) may be utilized tocouple, or further secure, body 42 to helmet 14.

In the foregoing configurations, cover 46 may be disposed on body 42. Inthis way, a portion of cover 46 surrounds top surface 50 of body 42 toprotect the body from atmospheric conditions. In some configuration,cover 46 may be coupled to outer surface 30 of external shell 22 to sealbody 42 from the atmospheric conditions. For example (e.g., FIG. 2C),first end 84 may be coupled to outer surface 30 of external shell sothat cavity 86 is not open to the atmosphere; however, in otherconfigurations, a gap is defined between the first end and the outersurface. In some configurations, cover 46 is not in contact with body 42while absorbent element 18 is coupled to helmet 14. In otherconfigurations, cover 46 may be coupled to body 42. To illustrate, iffirst end 84 and outer surface 30 define a gap, inner surface 80 may becoupled to top surface 50 of body 42. In the described configurations,cover 46 does not mitigate the impact absorption characteristics of body42. For example, cover 46 may allow complete or free engagement of body42 to provide unhindered capability (e.g., full compression) ofabsorbent element 18.

Although, cover 46 is described herein as covering a single body (e.g.,42), it should be noted that the cover may be shaped and sized to covera plurality of bodies (e.g., 42) based on the specific application ofabsorbent element 18. In some applications, cover 46 may surround aplurality of bodies to improve impact absorption characteristics orprovide an improved aesthetic appearance. To illustrate, a decreaseamount of bodies (e.g., 34) may be used in configurations where cover 46covers a plurality of bodies (e.g., 34) as the cover may provide agreater surface area to protect. Additionally, cover may distributeforce more evenly through the bodies 42 so that less elements arerequired for protection, thereby reducing weight and increasing comfortof the impact dispersion system 10.

Referring now to FIG. 3A-6D, shown therein and designated by thereference numeral 10 a is a second configuration of the present impactabsorption and dispersion system. In this configuration, components thatare similar (e.g., in structure and/or function) to components discussedwith reference to FIGS. 1-2C are labeled with the same referencenumerals and a suffix “a.” As shown, impact dispersion system 10 aincludes a helmet 14 a, a plurality of impact absorbing elements 18 a(e.g., absorbent elements), and a first layer 96. Absorbent elements 18a and first layer 96 are disposed in the interior of helmet 14 a (e.g.,within cavity 32 a). Absorbent elements 18 a and helmet 14 a may includeor correspond to absorbent elements 18 (e.g., body 42 and cover 46) andhelmet 14, respectively. In some configurations, impact dispersionsystem 10 a may include a safety layer 104.

First layer 96 comprises one or more inner liner(s) 100, each having anouter surface 108 and an inner surface 112 that opposes the outersurface. As shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B impact dispersion system 10 acomprises a single inner liner (e.g., 100) having an outer surface 108faces external shell 22 a and inner surface 112 faces safety layer 104.Absorbent element 18 a may be coupled to inner liner 100 such that theabsorbent element is interposed between the inner liner and the externalshell 22 a. In some configurations, body 42 a extends though inner liner100 (e.g., as described with reference to FIG. 2C) while absorbentelement 18 a is coupled to the inner liner; however, in otherconfigurations, the body (e.g., bottom surface 54 a) may be coupled(e.g., adhered) to outer surface 108 of inner liner. In the depictedembodiment, the plurality of absorbent elements 18 a extend radiallyaway from inner liner 100. Absorbent elements 18 a may be distributedevenly across inner liner 100, or in other configurations, the elementsmay be highly concentrated at a location (e.g., temporal lobe,cerebellum) where risk of traumatic brain injury from an impact ishighest, or a location where a majority of impacts are estimated tooccur (e.g., frontal lobe). In yet other embodiments, the absorbentelements 18 a may be positioned at any location along inner liner 100based on the application and design of helmet 14 a. In some embodiments,safety layer 104 acts as a firm support for the engagement of theabsorbent elements 18 a that are strategically placed throughout theinterior of the helmet and being below the helmet's exterior (e.g.,external shell 22 a). For example, impact dispersion system 10 mayinclude a poly-carbonate outer shell (e.g., 22 b), and a polystyrenelayer (e.g., 104 b) beneath the outer shell, that acts as a firm supportfor the engagement of absorbent elements 18 b that are strategicallyplaced throughout the polystyrene interior of the helmet.

As shown in FIG. 3B, body 42 a and cover 46 a are coupled to inner liner100 and extend toward external shell 22 a. Cover 46 a may be coupled toouter surface 108 of liner to protect body 42 a from atmosphericconditions (e.g., if shell 22 has vents or other apertures) and improveimpact dispersion of absorbent element 18. In the depictedconfigurations, cover 46 a is not in contact with external shell 22 asuch that a gap 116 is defined between the cover and inner surface 26 aof the external shell. Gap 116 may serve to optimize the functionalityof the comprised and fully connected interacting system. In this way,absorbent elements 18 a may disperse impact upon deformation of helmet14 a to allow maximum damping at the point of impact. In otherconfigurations, absorbent element 18 a may not comprise cover 46 a andgap 116 may be defined between body 42 (e.g., top surface 50 a) andinner surface 26 a of the external shell 22 a. In other configurations,body 42 a and/or cover 46 a may be coupled directly to inner surface 26a so absorbent element 18 a extends from inner liner 100 to externalshell. In each of the forgoing implementations, absorbent elements 18 aand inner liner 100 may operate in conjunction to prevent disperse theresultant forces of an impact. In this way, the forces acting uponsafety layer 104 or a user's brain may be decreased. As a result,helmets may be able to be re-used after a high impact collision aspermeant deformation of a foam (e.g., safety layer 104) does not occur.Additionally, impact dispersion system 10 a may allow for thinnerhelmets as a thickness of the safety layer may be reduced while stiffoffering the same or enhanced impact protection. In some configurations,an absorbent filler material (not shown) may be positioned between eachof the absorbent elements 18.

Inner liner 100 may be contoured to mimic the contours of external shell22 a to provide impact protection at each point of helmet 14 a. In someconfigurations, safety layer 104 may be similarly contoured to innerliner 100 and external shell 22 a to provide additional protection.Safety layer may comprise any suitable material for dispersing force,such as, foam (e.g., expanded polystyrene, expanded polypropylene,expanded polyurethane, rate-sensitive slow rebound foams, or the like),cloth, polymer, or the like). In such configurations, inner liner 110may be disposed on, or coupled to, safety layer 104. To illustrate,inner surface 112 of inner liner may be coupled to safety layer 104.Inner liner 100 may span at least a majority of (up to and including allof) safety layer 104.

Inner liner 100 may comprise any suitable material such as a high impactplastic or composite material for provide reinforcement for absorbentelements 18 during an impact. For example, inner liner 100 may comprisea fiber reinforce composite, high-strength polymer (e.g., ABS), Kevlar,silicone, or the like. Inner liner 100 may be flexible such that theliner may deform based on forces impacting helmet 14 a to disperse theforce to absorbent elements 18 located away from a point of impact.Inner liner 100 may also provide additional impact damping orpenetration protection against foreign objects. The inner and the outerliners 100 will be a thickness that is approximately 11 gauge orgreater. In some configurations, inner liner may be very thin (e.g.,less than 11 gauge) due to the higher impact absorption efficiency ofthe absorbent elements 18. In some configurations, an additional liner(not shown) may be coupled external shell 22 a (e.g., inner surface 26a) and absorbent element 18 may be coupled to the additional liner orform a gap with the additional liner to disperse a force associated withan impact as described above.

Referring now to FIGS. 4A-4D, impact dispersion system 10 a includeshelmet 14 a, impact absorbing elements 18 a (e.g., absorbent elements),first layer 96 comprising a plurality of inner liners 100 (e.g., amulti-piece liner) and a connection assembly 120. Connection assembly120 may couple the plurality of inner liners 100 to each other asdescribed in further detail herein.

As shown in FIGS. 4A-4D, impact dispersion system 10 a comprises amulti-piece liner (e.g., 96) having two inner liners (e.g., 100). In thedepicted configuration, each inner liner (e.g., 100) may cooperate(e.g., connect) to span at least a majority of (up to and including allof) safety layer 104. In some configurations, a first inner liner (e.g.,100) and a second inner liner (e.g., 100) may each comprise a separatehalf of first layer 96. For example, first liner may comprise a righthalf of first layer 96 and second liner may comprise a left half of thefirst layer (e.g., first and second liner are separated by a verticalplane bisecting helmet along a front to back axis), while in otherconfigurations, the first liner is a front half and the second liner isa back half of the first layer (e.g., first and second liner areseparated by a vertical plane bisecting helmet along a left to rightaxis). Yet in other configurations, the first and second liner may beseparated by a horizontal plane (e.g., a plane orthogonal to thevertical plane) or comprise any other suitable portion of first layer96. In this way, each inner liner 100 of the multi-piece first layer 96may deform independently of the other inner liners based on theresultant forces generated by an impact to helmet 14. Accordingly, theshear forces acting of first layer 96 can be reduced for certain impacts(e.g., tangential impacts) to helmet 14.

Connection assembly 120 includes a fastener 124 (e.g., connector) and apost 128. As shown, connection assembly 120 may couple a first innerliner (e.g., 100) to a second inner liner (e.g., 100). The fasteners 124may be used to horizontally join adjacent inner liners 100. Toillustrate, post 128 may be coupled to each inner liner 100 and fastener124 may be used to connect the posts disposed on adjacent linerstogether (e.g., fastener may connect a first post coupled to a firstinner liner to a second post coupled to a second inner liner). In thismanner, a single fastener (e.g, 124) may be used to connect two posts(e.g, 128). In such configurations, a plurality of posts (e.g., 124) anda plurality of fasteners (e.g., 124) may be used to connect adjacentinner liners 100 (e.g., 4 posts and 2 fasteners, 6 posts and 3fasteners, 8 posts and 4 fasteners, or the like). Posts 128 may becoupled to inner surface 112 and/or outer surface 108 of each innerliner 100. For example, as shown in FIGS. 4C and 4D connection assembly120 is shown connecting two inner liners together. In the depictedconfiguration, two posts 128 are coupled on inner surface 112 of a firstinner liner (e.g., 100) and are connected to two respective posts 128coupled to the inner surface of an adjacent liner (e.g., 100) viafasteners 124. Likewise, two posts 128 are coupled on outer surface 108of a first inner liner (e.g., 100) and are connected to two respectiveposts 128 coupled to outer surface 108 of an adjacent liner (e.g., 100)via fasteners 124. In other configurations, any suitable number of posts128 and fasteners 124 may be used to couple inner liners 100 together.Each post may be centered within ¼″ of each end of the liner to allowfor deformation of the liner on impact, while remaining attached to theadjoined post on the adjacent liner via fastener 124. The fasteners 124may remain attached to posts 128 by a fractionally wider lip at the topof each post (e.g., protrusion) that will help to prevent the liner fromslipping off of the post upon impact (as explained in further detailwith reference to FIGS. 7A and 7B).

As shown in FIG. 4D, connection assembly 120 may be used to couple firstlayer 96 to one other layer (e.g., external shell 22 a) of impactdispersion system 10 a. Fasteners 124 may be used to vertically joinfirst layer 96 at one other layer. For example, each inner liner 100 maydefine a hole (e.g., 6 spaced apart 1/16″ holes) and a fastener mayextend through the hole to couple the inner liner to another layer. Insome configurations, fastener 124 may be configured to connect firstlayer 96 to external shell 22 a such that gap 116 a is formed betweenabsorbent elements 18 a and the external shell to provide increasedimpact protection. To illustrate, a first end of fastener 124 may becoupled to first layer 96 (e.g., inner liner 100) and a second end ofthe fastener may be coupled to external shell 22 a.

In the depicted configuration, two fasteners 124 are used to couple eachinner liner 100 to external shell 22 a. In other configurations, asingle fastener (e.g., 124) may be used to couple each inner liner 100to external shell 22 a or more than two fasteners (e.g., 124) may beused to couple each inner liner to the external shell. Fasteners may behigh impact plastic or stainless steel and configured to join each ofthe liners. In other configurations, fastener 124 may comprise anysuitable material to couple components of dispersion system 10 together.

Referring now to FIG. 5A-5D, impact dispersion system 10 a comprises amulti-piece liner (e.g., 96) having three inner liners (e.g., 100). Inthe depicted configuration, each inner liner (e.g., 100) may cooperate(e.g., connect) to span at least a majority of (up to and including allof) safety layer 104. In some configurations, a first inner liner (e.g.,100), a second inner liner (e.g., 100), and a third inner liner (e.g.,100) may each comprise a separate portion (e.g., a third) of first layer96. Each liner may be spaced apart from an adjacent liner byapproximately ¼″ to allow for deformation of each liner withoutinterfering with adjacent liners. In some configurations, adjacent innerliners 100 may be separated by a vertical plane intersecting helmet 14 aand extending along a front to back axis, while in other configurations,adjacent inner liners 100 may be separated by a vertical planeintersecting helmet 14 a and extending along a left to right axis. Yetin other configurations, adjacent inner liners 100 may be separatedalong a horizontal plane or can be separated in any suitable manner suchthat each liner (e.g., first, second, third) may comprise any portion offirst layer 96. In this way, each inner liner 100 of the multi-piecefirst layer 96 may deform independently of the other inner liners basedon the resultant forces generated by an impact to helmet 14 a.Accordingly, the shear forces acting of first layer 96 can be reducedfor certain impacts (e.g., tangential impacts) to helmet 14.

As shown, connection assembly 120 may couple a first, second, and thirdinner liners (e.g., 100) together. To illustrate, a middle inner liner(e.g., an inner liner interposed between two other liners) may comprise8 posts coupled to inner surface 112 and/or outer surface 108 of theliner. In the depicted configuration, each post 128 coupled to middleinner liner may be coupled to one other respective post (e.g., 128)disposed one of two edge inner liners via a fastener 124. In thismanner, a single fastener (e.g, 124) may be used to connect two posts(e.g, 128) coupled to adjacent inner liners 100 to connect the innerliners together. In other configurations, any suitable number of posts128 and fasteners may be used to couple the three inner liners (e.g.,100) together. As shown in FIG. 5D, one or more fasteners 124 may beused to couple each inner liner 100 to external shell 22 a. In thedepicted configuration, six fasteners 124 are used to couple first layer56 to external shell 22 a (e.g., two fasteners for each inner liner).However, first layer 56 may be coupled to external shell 22 a in anysuitable manner.

As shown in FIG. 6A-6D, impact dispersion system 10 a comprises amulti-piece liner (e.g., 96) having four inner liners (e.g., 100). Insome configurations, first, second, third, and fourth inner liners(e.g., 100) may each comprise a separate portion (e.g., a fourth) offirst layer 96. Each liner may be spaced apart from an adjacent liner byapproximately ¼″ to allow for deformation of each liner withoutinterfering with adjacent liners. In the depicted configuration,adjacent inner liners 100 may be separated by a vertical planeintersecting helmet 14 a and extending along a front to back axis. Yetin other configurations, adjacent inner liners 100 may be separated inany suitable manner such that each liner (e.g., first, second, third,fourth) may comprise any portion of first layer 96. In this way, eachinner liner 100 of the multi-piece first layer 96 may deformindependently of the other inner liners based on the resultant forcesgenerated by an impact to helmet 14.

As shown, connection assembly 120 may couple a first, second, third andfourth inner liners (e.g., 100) together. To illustrate, two middleinner liners (e.g., an inner liner interposed between two other liners)each having 8 posts may be coupled to two edge inner liners each havingfour posts. In other configurations, any suitable number of posts 128and fasteners 124 may be used to couple the four inner liners (e.g.,100) together. As shown in FIG. 6D, one or more fasteners 124 may beused to couple each inner liner 100 to external shell 22 a. In thedepicted configuration, eight fasteners 124 are used to couple firstlayer 56 to external shell 22 a (e.g., two fasteners for each innerliner). However, first layer 56 may be coupled to external shell 22 a inany suitable manner.

Referring now to FIGS. 6A-6B, shown is an example of a post 128 used tocouple inner liners 100 together. In the depicted configuration, post128 includes a post platform 132 and a post body 136. Post platform 132is configured to couple post body 136 to each inner liner to allow forcontortion of impact dispersion system 10 a upon impact. Accordingly,each component of impact dispersion system 10 a (e.g., inner liner,absorbent element, fastener, helmet) may some degree of movement whenthe components are coupled together to prevent shear stress acting onthe components and increase dispersion of forces among the components.

Post platform 132 may include a bottom surface 140 and a top surface 144that opposes the bottom surface. As shown, top surface 144 may define adepression 146 configured to receive a portion of post body 136 so thatthe post body may rotate slightly, relative to post platform 132, whilethe post body is coupled to the post platform. As shown, depression 146may extend from top surface toward bottom surface. In someconfigurations, depression 146 may be between ⅛ and ½ inch. In thedepicted configurations, depression 146 is concave, while in otherconfigurations depression may be any suitable shape and size to allowlimited movement (e.g., roll and pitch) of post 128 upon impact ofhelmet 14 a. For example, post platform 132 is configured to allow postbody to move (e.g., angularly) up to a predetermined distance or angle.Specifically, post body 136 may move relative to post platform 132 suchthat a vertical axis of the post body may be displaced by an angle(e.g., 10 degrees or less) while the post body is coupled to the postplatform. In some configurations, post platform 132 is coupled to firstlayer 56. For example, post platform 132 may be coupled to inner surface112 or outer surface 108 of each inner liner 100. In someconfigurations, bottom surface 140 of post platform 132 may be adheredto inner liner 100, while in other configurations, the post platform maybe coupled to inner surface in any suitable manner.

In the depicted configuration, post platform 132 includes a thickness150 that is measured from bottom surface 140 to top surface along astraight line. Thickness 150 can be greater than or substantially equalto any one of, or between any two of: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11,12, 13, 14, or 15 gauge (e.g., approximately 11 gauge). In someconfigurations, post platform 132 may comprise a laminate 154 (e.g., aplurality of fibers dispersed within a matrix material). Laminate 154may comprise or more layers and can be unidirectional, multidirectional,woven (a plane, twill, satin, basket, leno, mock leno, or the likeweave), non-woven, or the like. In some configurations, laminate 154 maycomprise 60 to 100 gauge ABS laminate.

Post body 136 includes a top surface 160 and a bottom surface 164 thatopposes the top surface. In some configurations, post body 136 maydefine one or more protrusions 168 to secure fastener 124 to the postbody. In some configurations, protrusion 168 may comprise acircumferential lip adjacent to top surface 160 of post body 136 (e.g.,upper lip). In other configurations, protrusion may comprise anysuitable shape to prevent fastener 124 from translating in at least onedirection. In some configurations, post body 136 may define one or moregrooves (not shown) to facilitate coupling with fastener 124. As shownpost body 136, is cylindrical, however, the post body may be anysuitable shape to provide optimal absorption to impact dispersion system10. For example, post body 136 may be cylindrical, frusto-pyramidal,dodecahedron, other three dimensional polygonal shape (e.g., rectangularprism, hexagonal prism, or the like.

Post body 136 includes a length 172 and a width 176. Length 172 ismeasured between top surface and bottom surface along a straight line.Length 172 can be greater than or substantially equal to any one of, orbetween any two of: 1/16, ⅛, 3/16, ¼, 5/16, ⅜, 7/16, ½, 9/16, ⅝, 11/16,¾, 13/16, ⅞, 15/16, or 1 inches (in.) (e.g., approximately ⅜ in). Width176 (e.g., diameter) is measured between opposing sides of post bodyacross a straight line. Width 176 can be greater than or substantiallyequal to any one of, or between any two of: 1/16, ⅛, 3/16, ¼, 5/16, or ⅜(in.) (e.g., approximately ⅜ in). In some configurations, width 176 isless than the width of depression 146 such that post body 136 may havelimited movement relative to post platform 132 to allow for contortionof inner liner 100 and helmet 14. Accordingly, post 128 may allow forincreased damping properties and reduced stresses acting on impactdispersion system 10 a. In some configurations, post platform 132 maycomprise a plurality of body bodies (e.g., 136) as shown in FIGS. 7C and7D.

Referring now to FIG. 8A-10D, shown therein and designated by thereference numeral 10 b is a third configuration of the present impactdispersion system. In this configuration, components that are similar(e.g., in structure and/or function) to components discussed withreference to FIGS. 1-7B are labeled with the same reference numerals anda suffix “a.” As shown, impact dispersion system 10 b includes a helmet14 b, a plurality of impact absorbing elements 18 b (e.g., absorbentelements), a first layer 96 b, and a second layer 180. Absorbentelements 18 b and inner liner 100 b are disposed in the interior ofhelmet 14 b (e.g., within cavity 32 b). Absorbent elements 18 b andhelmet 14 b may include or correspond to absorbent elements 18 (e.g.,body 42, 42 a and cover 46, 46 a) and helmet 14, 14 a, respectively. Insome configurations, impact dispersion system 10 a may include a safetylayer 104 b.

Second layer 180 may comprise one or more outer liner(s) 184 each havingan outer surface 188 and an inner surface 192 that opposes the outersurface. As shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, impact dispersion system 10 acomprises a single outer liner (e.g., 184) having an outer surface 188that faces safety layer 104 b and an inner surface 192 that faces aninterior of helmet 14 b (e.g., in a direction opposite of external shell22 b). Absorbent elements 18 b are disposed between inner liner 100 band outer liner 184. Accordingly, outer liner 184, inner liner 100 b,and absorbent elements 18 b may from a sandwich layer with highabsorption (e.g., vibration damping) characteristics. In someconfigurations, an absorbent filler material (not shown) may be disposedbet between inner liner 100 b and outer liner 184 and surround at leastone absorbent element (e.g., 18 b). In some configurations, impactdispersion system 10 includes a poly-carbonate outer shell (e.g., 22 b),and a polystyrene layer (e.g., 104 b) beneath the outer shell, that actsas a firm support for the engagement of absorbent elements 18 b that arestrategically placed throughout the polystyrene interior of the helmet.In such configurations, impact dispersion system 10 may operate eitherwith or without an upper liner (e.g., 18) adhered to and over the top ofabsorbent elements 18 b that are strategically placed throughout theinterior of the helmet; with each unit adhered to a high impact plasticinner liner (e.g., 100 b).

The sandwich layer (e.g., outer liner 184, absorbent elements 18 b andinner liner 100 b) may be disposed below safety layer 104 b such thatthe safety layer is interposed between the sandwich layer and externalshell 22 b. For example, outer surface 188 of outer liner 184 may becoupled to safety layer 104 b. In some configurations, outer liner 184and inner liner 100 b may be contoured to mimic the contours of externalshell 22 a or safety layer 104 b to provide impact protection for helmet14 b. In such configurations, outer liner 184 may span at least amajority of (up to and including all of) safety layer 104. The outerliner 184 may comprise any suitable material and, in someconfigurations, the outer liner comprises the same material as innerliner 100 b.

In some configurations, absorbent elements 18 b are coupled to innerliner 100 b and/or outer liner 184. For example, each absorbent elementmay extend from the outer liner 184 to the inner liner 100 b. In someconfigurations, absorbent element 18 b does not comprise a cover 46 b.In this way, body 42 b may extend though inner liner 100 and/or outerliner 184, or, in other configurations, the body may be coupled (e.g.,adhered) inner liner and/or outer liner. In other configurations,absorbent elements 18 b may be coupled to only one of inner liner 100 orouter liner 184 such that a gap 116 b may be formed between theabsorbent elements and one of the liners. Absorbent elements 18 b may bedistributed evenly across the sandwich layer (e.g., inner and outerliner 100 b, 184), or in other configurations, the elements may behighly concentrated at a location (e.g., temporal lobe, cerebellum)where risk of traumatic brain injury from an impact is highest, or alocation where a majority of impacts are estimated to occur (e.g.,frontal lobe). The respective outer liner 184, and/or the inner liner100 enhance optimal performance of absorbent elements 18 to expand theirprotective coverage throughout the majority of the entire upper half ofthe helmet's design; or the entire cerebral cortex of the human brain.

Referring now to FIGS. 9A-11D, impact dispersion system 10 b includeshelmet 14 b, impact absorbing elements 18 b (e.g., absorbent elements),first layer 96 b comprising a plurality of inner liners 100 (e.g., amulti-piece liner), a second layer 180 comprising a plurality of outerliners 184 (e.g., multi-piece liner) and connection assembly 120 b.Connection assembly 120 b may couple the plurality of inner liners 100together and the plurality of outer liner 184 together as describedabove.

As shown, impact dispersion system 10 b may comprise two multi-piecelayers (e.g., first layer 96 b and second layer 180) each having aplurality of liners that move independently from one another. Forexample, each liner may be spaced apart from an adjacent liner bygreater than ⅛″ to allow for deformation of each liner withoutinterfering with adjacent liners.

In this way, first layer 96 b and second layer may comprise a pluralityof sandwich layers (e.g., inner liner 100 b, absorbent elements 18 b,outer liner 184) that can deform based on an impact of the helmet toreduce shear stress and increase absorption characteristics of impactdispersion system 10 b. For example, impact dispersion system 10 b maycomprise two inner liners 100 b and two outer liners 184 (FIGS. 9A-9D),three inner liners 100 b and three outer liners 184 (FIGS. 10A-10D),four inner liners and four outer liners (FIGS. 11A-11D), or the like. Inthe depicted configurations, each inner liner 100 b is coupled to arespective outer liner 184 such that the inner liner and respectiveouter liner are separated from adjacent in a similar manner (e.g.,boundaries of inner and outer liner have substantially equal polar andazimuthal angles from an origin point within cavity 32 b of helmet 14b). The plurality of sandwich layers may be separated in any suitablemanner. For example, sandwich layers may be separated similarly to innerliner 100 a as described above with reference to FIGS. 4A-6D. In otherconfigurations, impact dispersion system 10 b may comprise more innerliners (e.g., 100 b) than outer liner 184, while in other configurationsthe system may comprise more outer liners than inner liners so that theouter liners and inner liners overlap. In this way, first layer 96 b andsecond layer 180 may deform in a wave like manner to transfer (e.g.,disperse) force away from a point of impact.

As shown, connection assembly 120 b may couple adjacent inner liners 100b together and couple adjacent outer liner 184 together. Inner liners100 b and outer liners 184 may be coupled to like liners in any suitablemanner, such as described above with reference to FIGS. 4A-6D. Forexample, one or more posts 128 b may be disposed on an outer surface(e.g., 108 b, 188) of each liner (e.g., 100 b, 180) to couple the linerstogether. Additionally, or alternatively, one or more posts 128 b may bedisposed on an inner surface (e.g., 112 b, 192) of each liner (e.g., 100b, 180) to couple the liners together. Posts 128 b may be positioned inany suitable manner described herein. For example, inner liner 100 b andouter liner 184 of edge sandwich layers (e.g., layers adjacent to onlyone other layer) may each comprise four posts 128 b (two on innersurface and two on outer surface) that are coupled to four respectiveposts (e.g., 128 b) of inner and outer liners of one other sandwichlayer. Likewise, inner liner 100 b and outer liner 184 of middlesandwich layers (e.g., layer interposed between two other adjacentlayers) may comprise eight posts (four on inner surface and four onouter surface) that are coupled to four respective posts (e.g., 128 b)of inner and outer liners of each of the two other sandwich layers. Inother configurations, any suitable number of posts 128 b and fasteners124 may be used to couple the liners (e.g., 100 b, 184) together.

As shown in FIGS. 9C-11D, one or more fasteners 124 b may be used tocouple first layer 96 b and second layer 180 together. For example, eachinner liner 100 b may be coupled to a respective outer liner 188 viafasteners 124 b. In the depicted configuration, two fasteners 124 b areused to couple each inner liner 100 b to the respective outer liner 188;however, first layer 56 may be coupled to external shell 22 a in anysuitable manner.

In some configurations, one or more bolts 196 may be used to couple onemore components of dispersion system (10, 10 a, 10 b) together. As shownin FIG. 12, two bolts 196 may be used, being directly on opposite sidesof each other; to couple external shell 22, safety layer 104, firstlayer 96 and/or second layer 180 together. In some configurations, eachbolt may be approximately ¼″ in diameter by 2″ in length and having asemi-round bolt head to be on the exterior flush with the exterior lineron each opposite side of the helmet. In some configurations, one or moregrommets 200 may be coupled to each bolt. For example a grommet (e.g.,200) may be positioned at an interface of each layer bolt 196 passesthrough. Grommet 200 may have an approximate thickness of ⅛″ and isconfigured to be coupled around a portion of both 196. In someconfigurations, the bolt ends will extend through the impact dispersionsystem 10 (e.g., ½′″) allowing for a nut to be slightly torqued onto abolt assembly support. In the depicted configuration, the head (e.g.,smooth, rounded head) of each bolt 196 may be placed on the interior ofhelmet 14 c and the bolt may extend through the helmet where the nutsecures the bolt on the exterior (e.g., 22) of the helmet. In suchconfigurations, one or more covers (e.g., 46) may be disposed over thenut to prevent loosing of the nut and improve the appearance of system10. In this way, one or more components (e.g., 22, 96,104, 180) may becoupled together.

In a non-limiting example, a shallow rounded head bolt (e.g., 96) may bepositioned on the interior of the helmet, abutting the system's inner(or bottom) liner (e.g., 104, 96, 180). Each of the bolt assemblies maybe inserted starting from the indicated opposite sides of the helmet(e.g., 14). For example, bolt (e.g., 96) may be inserted through theexterior of the inner or the bottom liner (e.g., 104, 96, 180) having a¼″ high impact absorbent material grommet (e.g., 200). The bolt (e.g.,96) may then be slid through the outer liner or top liner (e.g., 104,96, 180) having a second ¼″ high impact absorbent material grommet(e.g., 200). The bolt may slide through the cleanly bored foamprotective layer (e.g., 104). The end of the bolt may extend through thefinal layer of the helmet's interior and exterior helmet's liner (e.g.,22) having a third ¼″ high impact absorbent material grommet). In someconfigurations, a lock washer and a nut or a lock nut may be coupled tothe end of the bolt (e.g., 96) at the exterior of the helmet (e.g., 14)and torqued gently to assure integrity of both sides of the entiresystem (e.g., 10). Both sides may be in alignment with the depicted twobolt assemblies. An aesthetic and protective covers (e.g., 46) made ofhigh impact absorbent material may be fitted snugly over the extendedbolt ends with the lightly torqued lock washer and a nut or a lock nuts.

A reinforcement high impact plastic strip may be coupled to the liner tofacilitate coupling of bolt 196. The strip may have a width ofapproximately 2″ and extend along the length of the liner; with the ¼″pre-drilled hole to accommodate the 2 bolts 196 on opposite sides of thehelmet 14. FIG. 12 depicts a non-limiting example of the coupling of oneor more components of system 10. It should be noted that components ofsystem 10 may be coupled together in any suitable manner known in theart, such as, adhesives, fasteners (e.g., connector 120, rivets, straps,snap fasteners), or the like.

The components of a single embodiment of the foregoing impact dispersionsystems (10, 10 a, 10 b) may be used additionally, or interchangeably,with the components described with reference to the other describedembodiments. As such, some systems may comprise combinations ofcomponents from each or any of the described embodiments. Each of theaforementioned designs are unique in that each design is customized tomanage the weight of the impact dispersion system 10, while effectivelyabsorbing and disbursing a much greater measure of impact energy awayfrom the human brain than traditional helmets.

The above specification and examples provide a complete description ofthe structure and use of illustrative configurations. Although certainconfigurations have been described above with a certain degree ofparticularity, or with reference to one or more individualconfigurations, those skilled in the art could make numerous alterationsto the disclosed configurations without departing from the scope of thisinvention. As such, the various illustrative configurations of themethods and systems are not intended to be limited to the particularforms disclosed. Rather, they include all modifications and alternativesfalling within the scope of the claims, and configurations other thanthe one shown may include some or all of the features of the depictedconfigurations. For example, elements may be omitted or combined as aunitary structure, connections may be substituted, or both. Further,where appropriate, aspects of any of the examples described above may becombined with aspects of any of the other examples described to formfurther examples having comparable or different properties and/orfunctions, and addressing the same or different problems. Similarly, itwill be understood that the benefits and advantages described above mayrelate to one configuration or may relate to several configurations.Accordingly, no single implementation described herein should beconstrued as limiting and implementations of the disclosure may besuitably combined without departing from the teachings of thedisclosure.

The previous description of the disclosed implementations is provided toenable a person skilled in the art to make or use the disclosedimplementations. Various modifications to these implementations will bereadily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the principles definedherein may be applied to other implementations without departing fromthe scope of the disclosure. Thus, the present disclosure is notintended to be limited to the implementations shown herein but is to beaccorded the widest scope possible consistent with the principles andnovel features as defined by the following claims. The claims are notintended to include, and should not be interpreted to include,means-plus- or step-plus-function limitations, unless such a limitationis explicitly recited in a given claim using the phrase(s) “means for”or “step for,” respectively.

1. A headgear impact dispersion system comprising: a helmet having anexternal shell that defines a cavity; and a plurality of impactabsorbing elements coupled to the external shell, each element:comprising a viscoelastic polymer; and extending radially away from theexternal shell in a direction opposite of the cavity.
 2. The system ofclaim 1, wherein each impact absorbing element: comprises an upper lipand a lower lip; and extends though the external shell.
 3. The system ofclaim 2, wherein: the external shell of the helmet comprises an interiorsurface and an exterior surface opposite the interior surface; and theplurality of impact absorbing elements are coupled to the helmet suchthat the lower lip of each element is disposed on the interior surfaceand the upper lip is disposed on the exterior surface.
 4. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the system further comprises a plurality of coverscoupled to the external shell, each cover comprising a pliable materialdisposed over at least one impact absorbing element of the plurality ofimpact absorbing elements.
 5. The system of claim 1, wherein each of theplurality of impact absorbing elements may be cylindrical or toroid. 6.The system of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of impact absorbingelements comprises a viscoelastic polymer.
 7. An impact absorptionsystem for protecting a user from an impact, the system comprising: anouter shell that defines a cavity configured to be positioned over auser's head; a foam layer coupled to the outer shell; and an absorptionlayer positioned between the foam layer and the outer shell, theabsorption layer comprising: one or more inner liners; and a pluralityof impact absorbing elements coupled to the inner liner(s), each elementcomprising a viscoelastic polymer.
 8. The system of claim 7, wherein theimpact absorbing elements comprise an absorbent body and a cover.
 9. Thesystem of claim 8, wherein: the absorbent body is cylindrical; and thecover comprises a pliable material configured to be disposed over andsurround at least a portion of the absorbent body.
 10. The system ofclaim 7, wherein the one or more inner liner(s) are coupled to a topsurface of the foam layer such that the inner liner covers at least aportion of the foam layer.
 11. The system of claim 7 wherein, theplurality of impact absorbing elements extend from the inner liner(s)toward the outer shell without contacting the outer shell.
 12. Thesystem of claim 7, further comprising: a plurality of connectors; andwherein: the one or more inner liner(s) comprise: a first inner liner;and a second inner liner; and the plurality of connectors are configuredto couple the first inner liner to the second inner liner.
 13. Thesystem of claim 12, further comprising: a plurality of posts configuredto be coupled to the one or more inner liner(s); and wherein theplurality of posts comprise a first post coupled to the first innerliner and a second post coupled to the second inner liner.
 14. Thesystem of claim 13, wherein a first connector of the plurality ofconnectors extends from the first post to the second post to couple thefirst inner liner to the second inner liner.
 15. The system of claim 14,wherein a second connector of the plurality of connectors extends fromthe outer shell to the first inner liner to couple the absorption layerto the outer shell.
 16. The system of claim 13, wherein each postcomprises: a post platform configured to be coupled to the innerliner(s), and a post body extending away from the post platform, thepost body comprising an upper lip.
 17. The system of claim 13, whereineach post comprises a laminate.
 18. A helmet for protecting a user froman impact, the helmet comprising: an outer shell defining a cavityconfigured to be positioned over a user's head; a foam layer coupled tothe outer shell; a plurality of sandwich layers coupled to the foamlayer, each sandwich layer comprising: an inner liners, an outer liners;and a plurality of impact absorbing elements extending from the outerliner to the inner liner, each element comprising a viscoelasticpolymer; and a connection assembly configured to couple the plurality ofsandwich layers together, the connection assembly comprising: aplurality of posts coupled to the inner liner and the outer liner ofeach sandwich layer; and one or more fasteners configured to connect atleast two posts of the plurality of post together.
 19. The helmet ofclaim 18, wherein the foam layer is positioned between the outer shelland the plurality of sandwich layers.
 20. The helmet of claim 18,wherein a top surface of the outer liner of each sandwich layer iscoupled to the foam layer.
 21. The helmet of claim 18, wherein each postcomprises: a post platform; and a post body coupled to, and extendingaway from, the post platform.
 22. The helmet of claim 21, wherein thepost body is be moveable relative to the post platform.
 23. The helmetof claim 21, wherein: a first post of the plurality of posts is coupledto a first inner liner; a second post of the plurality of posts iscoupled to a second inner liner; and a first fastener of the one or morefasteners extends from the first post to the second post to couple thefirst and second inner liners together.
 24. The helmet of claim 21,wherein the post body comprises an upper lip.
 25. An impact absorbingelement for dispersing force from an impact on a helmet, the elementcomprising: a cylindrical body extending from a top surface to a bottomsurface, the cylindrical body: comprises a viscoelastic polymer(sorbothane); and defines one or more protrusions; and a concaveprotective cover configured to be disposed over the top surface of thecylindrical body such that a portion of the cover surrounds the topsurface of the cylindrical body; wherein the bottom surface of thecylindrical body is configured to be coupled to an external shell of ahelmet such that the external shell is disposed between one of theprotrusions and the top surface.